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Principal Lawyer
Brisbane
Join the Official Solicitor, Corporate Legal Services division at the Queensland Public Trustee (QPT) as a Principal Lawyer within the Sanctions and Litigation team. You will deliver high level legal services, provide authoritative advice, and represent the Office in complex corporate litigation. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting the QPT’s corporate activities and ensuring compliance with legislative, professional and public sector standards.
Job details
| Position status | Fixed Term Temporary |
|---|---|
| Position type | Flexible full-time |
| Occupational group | Justice & Legal |
| Classification | PO5 |
| Workplace Location | Brisbane Inner City |
| Job ad reference | QLD/PT05/26 |
| Closing date | 05-Mar-2026 |
| Job duration | Temporary up to 12 months |
| Contact person | Kathryn Williams |
| Contact details | 07 3564 2891 Access the National Relay Service |
About the role
As the Principal Lawyer, Sanctions and Litigation, you will provide authoritative legal advice and representation to the Public Trustee and Executive Directors. Operating within the Corporate Legal Services division, you will manage complex and sensitive legal matters, oversee litigation, and contribute to the strategic legal direction of the Office.
Working with a high degree of autonomy, your responsibilities will include:
- Providing high‑level corporate legal advice, including in relation to the management of customer's financial affairs and the administration of deceased estates.
- Conducting and managing difficult and complex litigation involving the QPT in its corporate (non‑representative) capacity.
- Representing the Office before all Queensland Courts and Tribunals with relevant jurisdiction.
- Advising on the development or amendment of internal policies and procedures and the drafting and amendment of legislation impacting the QPT.
- Maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with professional standards, public sector requirements, and QPT policies and procedures.
This is an exciting temporary full-time opportunity up to 12 months based in Brisbane. Please download the role description for more information.
About you
You are a highly capable and experienced legal professional with a strong background in corporate legal services and litigation. You bring sound judgment, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage complex matters in a dynamic government environment.
To succeed in this role, you will demonstrate:
- Admission as a Legal Practitioner of the Supreme Court of Queensland (mandatory).
- A degree in Law or equivalent (mandatory).
- Expertise across areas such as commercial law, administrative law, elder and disability law, trusts, litigation, government policy and succession law.
- Strong working knowledge or ability to quickly acquire knowledge of key legislation, including the Public Trustee Act 1978, Trusts Act 1973, Trusts Act 2025, Succession Act 1981, and Guardianship and Administration Act 2000.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, practical and authoritative advice.
- Proven experience building and maintaining trusted relationships with government agencies, legal practitioners and external stakeholders.
Step into a role where your legal expertise directly supports government decision‑making and delivers outcomes that positively impact Queenslanders.
What we offer
- Exposure to meaningful, high‑value and complex legal work.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- A supportive workplace culture that prioritises employee mental health and wellbeing, including flexible working arrangements.
Interested in applying?
Please provide the following information in your application:
- A cover letter (maximum two pages) telling us what you will bring to the role and your motivation for applying.
- Your current CV or resume (maximum three pages is recommended), including any mandatory and/or other requirements.
- Details of two referees who have a thorough knowledge of your capabilities, work performance and conduct within the previous two years. It is preferable to include your current or immediate past supervisor.
Only those persons eligible to work in Australia may be employed by QPT. Prospective employees will be required to provide proof of identity and documentary evidence of their right to work in Australia.
QPT is a value for money independent state trustee service dedicated to advancing and safeguarding the rights, interests and wishes of Queenslanders in need of financial management, trust and estate planning and administration support. We have been looking after Queenslanders and their families since 1916.
Further information
We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.
Documents
Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.
